Best microwaves under $100

Last Updated: 25.05.19

In the market for an affordable microwave oven but you don’t know which one you should think of choosing? We might be able to help you. Thanks to our week-long research where we’ve looked at dozens of consumer reports, sales figures, and specialized forum posts, we have concluded that the Westinghouse WCM660B is the product that’s best suited for what you have in mind. This model is perfectly adapted for small apartments and with the microwave being capable of adjusting the time and power for every type of food, it can surely become a good investment. The 600-watt power of this appliance can give you a pointer as to whether you will be able to prepare frozen dinners in a timely fashion. In case the Panasonic NN-SN936B is no longer available, we suggest considering the next best choice, the Danby Designer DMW077BLSD.

Comparison Table

This 600-watt microwave oven is a great choice for people who live in studios, dorms, or smaller apartments. The model has been outfitted with six simple power levels that can be set using the rotary control which can be found on the right side of the front panel. The removable glass turntable that comes with the appliance can be cleaned using the dishwasher.

You may have to place an anti-slip rubber pad under the unit in order to prevent it from slipping on your counter.

If you need a compact microwave oven that does the job without giving you any headaches, this one might be it.

This model comes with a 700-watt cooking power which should be more than enough under most circumstances. Boasting a digital display and easy-to-push buttons, this model is both convenient and efficient and has been found to be one of the most affordable ones in this line. The fact that it also looks good, what with its black and stainless steel exterior, is also a bonus.

The window is too dark for consumers to see how things are cooking inside. Some users say that it is too bulky for their liking.

The Danby Designer is a compact and functional microwave oven that doesn’t cost a fortune. It does what it’s supposed to do.

The RCA alternative comes with most of the features you might want from a dependable microwave oven. Its 700-watt power, glass turntable, and easy-to-push buttons are just a few of the aspects you’re going to enjoy if you decide to go for this product. Since its dimensions are rather small, it is undoubtedly recommended for people living in dorms or studios.

Several owners argue that the model is too small for their needs. They can’t fit a big place into the oven.

If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly choice that can be utilized efficiently and easily, we suggest giving this one a shot.

Buying guide

Finding the right type of microwave oven these days might truly be an adventure, what with the broad array of choices you need to take into account. These appliances can help you make a snack without too much effort, and if you’re into frozen dinners, you definitely have to consider them.

To make it slightly easier for you to make up your mind about one model or the next, we have created a short guide that can help you understand what features are must-haves and which you can live without.

What type are you looking for?

One of the first details you should give some thought to is the kind of model you are searching for. There are countertop options, built-in ones, as well as over-the-range choices. Some are more expensive than others, as would be the case with built-in-ones, for example.

Something that truly makes the difference between all of these types is their size. You somehow need to make sure that you select the right dimensions for your kitchen space and your type of countertop. Also, the performance of the model varies greatly depending on its size, and you’ll come to notice that most heavier and larger alternatives have superior power.

Estimating the performance of a new microwave oven

Even if you don’t have a doctorate in mechanical engineering, you probably know that kitchen appliances have different powers. The only way of telling whether one has better performance compared to another is by looking at the wattage.

As we were saying, larger models usually have better power, but you have to make sure that one of these is in accordance with your requirements. High-power microwave ovens are capable of getting your food ready quickly, so if you’re particularly hungry when you get back from work or school and have zero patience, you need one of these.

On the other hand, if this doesn’t matter all that much but you have little to no kitchen space available, perhaps a smaller and slower microwave oven is a better choice for you.

What are your expectations in terms of price?

It often boils down to what you are willing to pay for a new appliance such as this one. While there are many affordable models that cost about one hundred, we’ve noticed that most of the critically acclaimed ones are priced at around two hundred. Of course, there are others that can go up to fifteen hundred, but those are mostly over-the-range and built-in.

It is a good idea to set a budget for a new kitchen product, and that’s because some can be quite pricey. If you’re a student, you probably want to spend as little money as possible and occupy as little space in your small apartment, studio, or dorm room.

Some features are essential whereas others are not

Models that have been outfitted with a turntable make it possible for the cooking process to be even. Other details you might be interested in getting with your microwave oven is a set of quick keys that can allow you to use automatic settings for specific foods. A button for popcorn, one for beverages, and one for frozen veggies, for instance, can always come in handy.

If you or the person you are getting the product for has a hard time wrapping their mind around touchscreens, modern buttons, or other details like these, you could always consider a product that comes with one or two rotary dials.

Best microwaves for the money

Owning a microwave will let you have a lot of advantages that previously you simply couldn`t have. You don`t necessarily have to get a very expensive one to use in your kitchen because there are cheaper options that have excellent features as well, which normally should suffice. So you know which model is best for you, we have the best Panasonic microwaves reviews, but the next list of the best microwaves under $100 should be all you need.

Westinghouse WCM660B

If what you need is more of a smaller microwave either because you need it at the office or in your dormitory, perhaps the Westinghouse alternative might just be what you’ve been looking for. It’s true that it is slightly less powerful compared to other choices, but it does get the job done and is easy to use.

The model has been equipped with two rotary dials, one of which you can use for the time and the other for the cooking power level. The turntable is a nice addition, but it’s almost mandatory for microwave ovens to come with such a feature nowadays. Otherwise, they wouldn’t do a really good job at heating food up evenly.

Pros

Due to its smaller size, the WCM660B is the perfect alternative for small apartments, dormitories, as well as studios.

The 600-watt power is good enough if you have a little patience or you don’t need a particularly powerful appliance.

One of the neatest things about the Westinghouse option is that it does not break the bank.

The handle that the door has been outfitted with is easy to grip.

The two rotary controls boasted by this choice can be used conveniently and efficiently.

Cons

During particularly long cooking processes, you might come to notice that the appliance tends to slip on your counter. We suggest getting an anti-slip mat to get rid of this problem.

Danby Designer DMW077BLSD

If searching for a reasonably priced microwave oven has you feeling baffled as to which one you should select from the array of those available for sale, maybe you should give a chance to this Danby option. It’s versatile, convenient, and does exactly what it has been designed to do.

The model comes with a capacity of 0.7 cu.ft. and a cooking power of 700 watts. The latter ensures that your meals will be prepared in a timely fashion while the first enables you to make the most of the microwave.

There are six functions you’re likely to use most often and they’re at your fingertips thanks to the control panel of this choice. The digital display will let you know just how long you have to wait before you can finally enjoy your meal. Plus, adjustability is one of the core features of this model as it comes with as many as 10 power-level options for you to select from.

Pros

Due to its capacity, this model makes a great choice for dorms, offices, lunchrooms, as well as kitchens in small apartments.

The 700-watt power can make it possible for you to avoid waiting for minutes on end. You’ll be able to grab something warm and perfectly cooked to eat as quickly as possible.

The 10 power-level options can give you the freedom you might need if you’re all for customizing your devices and appliances per your personal preferences.

Since this model comes with a black and stainless steel exterior, it can blend in with any type of interior design.

Because it is compact, it doesn’t take up too much space on the countertop.

Cons

Some buyers have complained about the fact that they can’t see how everything is cooking because of the tint of the window glass. It’s too dark for them to be able to do

RCA RMW733

Even though it’s one of the most affordable microwave ovens we were able to track down on the market today, this RCA choice doesn’t disappoint owners with its performance. It is versatile, convenient, and user-friendly, and it even comes with a power of 700 watts.

Besides, the model features a turntable made from glass, which basically means that cleaning and maintenance won’t be that much of a nuisance. At least you’ll be able to wash the turntable in your dishwasher. As is the case with some of the other units we’ve showcased in our selection, this one offers six one-touch functions ranging from defrost to cook by weight.

Pros

The 0.7 cu.ft. appliance offers a good deal of space if you’re mostly looking to warm up or prepare frozen dinners, beverages, and other foods you might enjoy.

The turntable is made out of glass, which means that it is dishwasher-safe.

The 700-watt output enables you to rest assured that all your foods will be cooked through.

It seems that more than five hundred customers have nothing but good things to say about the RMW733, which is admirable given that it is budget-friendly.

Cons

Some owners note that they can barely fit a plate into the appliance.

Others say that they’ve noticed that the timer might malfunction on occasion, although there is no rule as to why or when this might occur.

Oster AM930B

The Oster AM930B can easily fit the bill of one of the best microwaves under $100. It is a microwave which comes in a nice design, with a black color which will prove to fit right in your modern kitchen. A child safety lock is included as well, to protect your little one from doing himself any harm. The 900 watts of power are also a definite plus, which will defrost or cook your meals as you see fit. The one-touch controls will not present any difficulties in learning how to use them.

Pros

Sleek design and compact features make this a real favorite in dozens of top affordable microwaves reviews, thanks to how it easily fits into a standard kitchen countertop

Orange may be the new black, but getting this stylish black microwave will still be one great decision. The unit looks smart, sophisticated and it should fit in with the rest of the discriminating homemaker’s kitchen décor.

With ten adjustable power levels, getting the cooking done has never been a more pleasurable experience. Thaw, reheat frozen dinners, bake some potatoes, heat up some cocoa, pop in some pizza or put in a bag of popcorn-the list of what you can do with this microwave is endless!

One-touch cook settings help you complete kitchen work in nearly half the time, without the guesswork and without wasting food!

Cons

No one-minute or half-minute button, but still cooks quickly nonetheless

Unit gives off four beeps when done, just to ensure that the cook gets alerted effectively

Oster OGB81101

Its excellent performances and features have granted the Oster GB81101 the title of one of the best microwaves under $100. The one-touch controls are very easy to learn and they will let you set the 9 different cooking functions. Your child`s safety is also taken into account because this microwave comes with programmable child lock system to prevent any unfortunate accidents. The 1000 watts cooking power can be put to good use and heat, defrosting or cook your favorite foods and dinks.

Pros

Get quick weight defrost even when food comes straight from the freezer to the microwave oven, thanks to this unit’s awesome 1000 watts of cooking power

Enjoy express cooking and prepare full gourmet meals that the whole family can share together at the table

Child-safe lockout feature provides protection at its most critical, so meals can be prepared even with curious children around the kitchen

Never hate washing up after, thanks to the removable glass turntable that is always a breeze to clean

Cons

Display may be too small and hard to read for some users, but it’s all really just a matter of taste

Cooking times need to be carefully set because of the extra powerful wattage, just to prevent overcooking certain food items

Panasonic NN-SN936B

If you have nothing against bigger appliances, perhaps you should consider this Panasonic model as it comes with a power of 1250 watts. Therefore, it goes without saying that you will be able to prepare your frozen dinner in as little time as possible.

Besides, the model has been outfitted with an automatic sensor for times and power and an inverter for quick defrosting. There are nine simple preset menu items that you can choose from if you don’t want to be bothered with customizing the cooking process. Since it has garnered the appreciation of over two hundred buyers, it seems that this unit is worth considering.

Pros

The touch-button control panel that this choice has been equipped with make it very easy to utilize.

The Turbo Defrost feature will be greatly appreciated by those who like their frozen dinners cooked to perfection.

There’s a Keep Warm function you might enjoy using if you like multitasking and want to tend to some chores while your food is being prepared.

The 1250-watt power will enable you to enjoy your dishes without having to wait for a long time

Cons

It’s not one of the smallest appliances ever to have been invented, at least judging by what people have had to say about it.

Sharp Electronics R-21LCF

Convenience is at the root of this product as it has been equipped with a highly usable rotary dial that allows both younger and older consumers to make the most of the appliance. The stainless steel door and interior that the Sharp R-21LCF has been equipped with make it a sight for sore eyes.

It can integrate into the design of any kitchen. Also, the 1000-watt power enables owners to enjoy their foods in a timely fashion, without having to wait for minutes on end. Most of the features of this product are user-friendly, as is the case of the 6-minute dial timer that you will find on the front panel.

Pros

The 1000-watt performance is one of the greatest selling points of this choice.

It’s easy to use and convenient, especially as it has been outfitted with a rotary dial that can be used both my older and younger consumers.

Compared to other appliances we have checked out, this one does not cost a fortune.

The R-21LCF features a nice-looking design that will allow it to tie any kitchen together.

Most owners have reported that the R-21LCF is heavy duty and will last for a good deal of time.

Cons

As with other choices, this one isn’t particularly small, and so you might have to measure out your counter space before placing your order.

Frigidaire Gallery Series 2

While it might be a slightly less popular option particularly when compared to some of the others we have mentioned already, this Frigidaire choice is surely worth taking into account. On the one hand, it boasts a whopping output of 1200 watts, so it’s perfectly capable of doing its job.

Moreover, it comes with as many as ten power levels, four melt and soften options, as well as three auto-cook choices you can select to your heart’s content. There are quick and convenient controls for baking potatoes, preparing chicken nuggets, popcorn, as well as veggies. The only drawback of this choice is that it isn’t especially reasonably priced.

Pros

The 1200-watt output can give you a pointer as to whether this model is capable of excellent performance or not.

Ease of use can be defined by this microwave oven as it comes with a plethora of user-friendly options that simplify the entire operation process.

There’s also a Keep Warm feature you might be interested in using.

Besides, you always have the freedom to delay the process or add thirty seconds to it.

Cons

One of the most notable drawbacks of trying out this product is that it tends to cost a pretty penny.

Sunbeam SGS90701W

Cooking and defrosting foods will be a simple task for the Sunbeam SGS90701W because of its 6 different programs and 10 adjustable power levels. With so much variety for such an affordable price you will be able cook a lot of different meals or heat any kind of drink. The one touch controls won’t prove a problem to learn, so you can easily select the power level you require. The LED display shows the exact hour or how many seconds remain of the selected program.

Pros

Ten adjustable power levels are complemented by 700 watts of cooking power, to help the busy homemaker prepare instant gourmet meals at the mere touch of a button, leaving more time to bond with the family

Six different auto cooking /one-touch menu options leave no guesswork to how snacks or meals can be prepared, so everyone can sit down quickly to hearty feasts or sumptuous snacks

Removable glass turntable is easy to clean and maintain, while being easy to put back without use of any tools whatsoever

LED display is brightly illuminated while supplementing the digital clock and digital timer to show precise cooking times, letting the cook know exactly what is happening inside the oven unit

Beeping sound at the end of cooking cycle is very audible and repeats itself when dish is not taken out immediately

“For a very affordable price, you can have the Sunbeam SGS90701W Microwave Oven. This microwave can be controlled and adjusted to the right cooking settings easily. I never feel any stress using the product because of the great performance and functionality it exhibits. I’m sure I’ve made the best deal for the money I was prepared to spend.” Annabelle Meyers

Oster OGG3701

If you want a simple microwave but with still a nice and modern design that the Oster OGG3701 is a good option. You will have six cooking options so you cover all food and drink types there are. There are also 10 power levels for the 700 watt engine so you have all the control you need for what is going on inside it. The turntable is made out of glass and you have the option of taking it out.

Pros

Go digital with a 700-watt microwave oven that has been nicknamed top affordable microwaves 2019, thanksto its ten adjustablepower levels that take the hassle and guesswork out of cooking

With 6 auto cooking/one-touch menu, user can easily prepare hot beverages, popcorn, pizza, baked potatoes or reheat and heat up frozen dinners for quick enjoyment from the freezer to the oven to the table

Digital clock and digital timer give cooks the precise time that is required to prepare a full meal or just one dish at a time, leaving more options for the details that do matter like conversations with colleagues or delightful interactions

US-made product serves as a guarantee of superior quality and outstanding and innovative cooking technology

Cons

Operates with a loud sound to let the cook know it’s doing its job

Small interior made for preparing small servings of great feasts

“I never had any trouble using the Oster OGG3701 Microwave Oven, even for the first time because it is easy to use and to manage. The controls are intuitive and I can choose the setting I want without any hassle. I recommend it as one of the best rated microwaves under 100 in 2019. Such a cheap price doesn’t need a Black Friday discount to be accessible. ” Amie Stevens

Sunbeam SGS90701B-B

The Australian home appliance company, Sunbeam, is known for their top microwaves and the SGS90701B-B is a perfect example. Although not hugely powerful, this 700W microwave has 10 different power levels, giving the user a wide variety of culinary possibilities. Even though the company is from Down Under, this model still fulfills all the North American Electrical Standards, so you don’ t have to worry about its reliability.

The one touch controls will make setting the correct cooking time easy, while the LED display will show the time too. Furthermore, the affordable price range of this model makes it a consumer favorite in the US.

Pros

The compact and sleek design makes it ideal for counter tops with a limited amount of space to offer

The ten power levels are great for a lot of different things, from defrosting to melting butter

For its small size, the 700 watts of power are among the best in its class

The SGS90701B-B is easy affordable for any customer with an average budget available

It will alarm you once the heating is done, so you don’t forget about your hot coco

Cons

Some people have found it awkward to adjust to its controls (this is not a major issue and you should be able to get used to them in a short while)

The rotating glass plate makes a rattling noise when not placed properly on the carousel (this problem can be easily solved if you make sure the glass plate is correctly placed over the carousel)

“I decided to buy this microwave around Xmas, so it had a very affordable price. For my small apartment it’s perfect, it doesn’t occupy too much space on my kitchen counter and it defrosts or warms without any problems. What more could I ask for from a top 10 microwave oven.” – Constance Cox

Oster OGZB1101 – Not Available

One way to go if you want to purchase a microwave at a decent price is the Oster OGZ1101. Its 1000 watt engine has 10 different adjustable levels so a wide variaty of choices is assured. Inside you will be able to find a glass turntable which can always be removed if you decide it has no purpose. To set the different programs is easy and you won`t encounter any difficulties.

“I never encounter any difficulties in using the Oster OGZB1101 Microwave Oven. For almost 3 years of its service, the product didn’t give me any problems. Damage is not a problem with this product because it is made of good quality materials. I am not sure which is the best microwave under 100 in 2019, but I know this is a reliable model. “ Magdalena Bowers

How to choose a good and cheap microwave

Every kitchen should come equipped with a powerful microwave, designed to heat up different food. We are not surprised to see the sudden growing interest for advanced microwaves, capable of helping people prepare different types of food with ease. Such kitchen appliances use “micro waves” in order to heat food at an impressive frequency of 1500 megahertz (MHz). The waves are safely absorbed by sugars, fats and water converted in heat. Still, you need to know that micro waves are not absorbed by plastics, ceramics or glass. This is why you don’t have to place metal pans or different utensils in the oven. In order to find the right model you should consult some of the present best microwaves reviews, written down by experienced cooks and satisfied users. With quality information you will complete your kitchen with a powerful appliance that won’t let you down.

Only by learning more about the best microwaves in 2019 will you be able to identify a product that responds well during all culinary endeavours. The microwave ovens are highly efficient in heating different types of food. There are many types of microwaves available on the market: microwave with grill, built-in combi and regular. These are the primary kitchen appliances that you can opt from. Microwaves with grills can be used in order to crisp food and eat them seasoned with other ingredients. According to recent statistics it seems that more and more people use in their kitchens combi microwaves, with grill and convection (hot-air) oven which offers more culinary flexibility. Such devices also include advanced steaming function, for more demanding works. Another thing to take into account revolves around microwave size. The current capacities vary from 17 L to over 32L. Microwaves suited for family usage has mostly the following capacity 27 L, more than enough to place different types food.

Once you go through the best microwaves reviews you will be able to find the product which heats up different types of food. Most appliances come with 800W to 1100W power, with higher wattage the quicker you’ll eat. There are also other things to take into account: price, type of cooking, accessories, automatic cooking, defrosting, chaos defrost, linings, multi-sequence cooking, sensor cooking, child lock, turbo reheat, drop-down door and preset programmes. Microwaves should come with the following accessories: safe trays, steamers, dishes and also egg poacer which ensure heightened cooking precision.

With attention, you will be able to find some of the best microwaves in 2019 and ultimately narrow the gap on only one. The first thing you need to do is use only safe containers or tableware while heating different food. You don’t have to use containers with metal trim while heating food. You might want to leave food to stand for around 2 minutes after it’s cooked. Furthermore you have to keep the microwave clean in order to limit the appearance of problems. Make sure that the device includes a user friendly interface, needed to make any culinary project easy to handle with no waste of time.

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